So it is only fitting that this year we specifically say ‘Thank You’ to the First World War generation who served, sacrificed and changed our world.

Thousands of volunteers will help sell and distribute paper poppies in the following days. I will be out and about in our city doing my bit too.

I want to take this opportunity to offer my appreciation to those in Portsmouth doing our city proud by volunteering with the appeal and in respect of all those who sacrificed their lives for a more peaceful world”.